Oasis: April 2021 Issue

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Allyson Konz

DEPUTY EDITOR

Kate Lawless

ART DIRECTOR

Channing Smith

WUD PRESIDENT

Lily Miller

WUD PUBLICATIONS COMMITTE DIRECTOR

Evanka Annyapu

WUD PUBLICATIONS COMMITTE ADVISOR

Robin Schmoldt

ARTS CURATOR

Emma Gray

PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR

Annika Ide

CREATIVE DIRECTORS

Sam Starks

Maria Dayneko

FASHION DIRECTOR

Sarah Troy

FASHION EDITOR Corbin Woessner

LIFESTYLE EDITOR

Shelby Evans

CULTURE EDITOR

Gabrielle Gronewold

ARTS EDITOR

Arella Warren

SOCIAL MEDIA AND MARKETING DIRECTOR

Jade Christensen

SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR

Talia Abbe

WRITERS

Shelby Evans • Maya Greenberg •Elizabeth Karnowski • Jessica Katz

• Jamie Randall • Mason Braasch • Olivia Peters

• Madison Targum • Chloe Lipton • Gabrielle Gronewold • Kora Quinn • Rachel Hale • Jane Houseal

• Grace Reber • Manon Bushong • Allyson Konz

MODELS

Maya Greenberg • Sam Witt • Isabella Ramirez • Kamryn Truesdale • Manon Bushong • Tenzin Dolma • Lucy Phillips

ART

Channing Smith • Emma Gray • Ella Cunz • Riley

August • Sammy Meyerson • Allyson Konz • Rose Quinlan • Jessica Tenenbaum

PHOTOGRAPHY

Molly Jacobs • Brendan McFadden • Anna Janke • Annika Ide • Hunter Kiehl

• Hannah Huber • Bela Orzechowski • Jessica Tenenbaum • Seth DeGier

TABLE OF CONTENTS

LIFESTYLE

12 The Ugly Truth

Genocide is still happening, and it’s time we talk about it

32

Balancing Act

Should UW-Madison prioritize public health or mental health?

36

CULTURE ARTS

Commodification of an Oasis

How private citizens and companies seeking a tax break drive out locals from their homes

47 Bad Karma

How Western ideals infiltrated the yoga movement

48 Your Vacation Spot Might Be Disappearing

How the climate crisis is affecting beloved tourism destinations

22

Turning Tragedy into Artistry

How Frida Kahlo Used Painting As A Cathartic Release

46

Media For The Restless Wanderer

Stories to entertain us while we dream of future travel

FEATURED

25

Desert Springs

41 Dust

5

Head to Toe Hydration

Moda’s guide to hydrating your entire body, inside and out

8

A Guide to Your Perfect Outdoor Date

Take your romance into nature and enjoy the weather!

16

Home Away From Home

Safe spaces on the UW-Madison Campus

24 Why Do We Dream?

A look into theories behind the meaning of dreams

40

Getting to Know Madison’s Parks

Getting outside is easier than you think

50

Creating Your Happy Place

Your bedroom should be a personal oasis

FASHION

6 Crafty Chic

Spring fashion is dominated by crochet and knit pieces

33 Badlands

Exploring fashion trends inspired by the desert

38 More Than a Swimsuit

Express your personal style through swimwear

Letter from the Editor

Dear Readers,

As the first signs of spring begin to appear in Madison, it’s hard not to feel a rising optimism about the future. Sunny skies allow us to walk outside with friends we haven’t seen in a long time, the vaccine rollout in Wisconsin promises us a time when we can expect some sort of immunity, and even the rainy days bring us greener lawns and blooming wildflowers.

April, to me, has felt like the beginning of a turning point. Maybe it’s because I can count down the days until I am fully vaccinated and can hug my parents again; it may also be the inevitable graduation date looming around the corner. Regardless, this month, and this feeling of hope, is something the Moda staff wanted to encapsulate in our April issue. That is how we landed on Oasis.

An oasis is a place that provides refuge, relief or pleasant contrast. It is the safeguard in the middle of a desert, a seemingly endless and barren space. As over 30% of Wisconsinites have received their first vaccination, it is no far fetched call to imagine ourselves in our own sort of oasis.

We asked our staff to consider these themes of hopefulness, refuge and self-care. Jamie Randall wrote an article explaining how to stay hydrated from head to toe this upcoming summer, Mason Braasch detailed how to make your room your happy place, and Olivia Peters suggested five pieces of media to inspire your daydreaming.

Others wrote about the effects of a lack of an oasis. Kora Quinn interviewed UW-Madison students on how they felt about the university’s decision to cancel spring break this year. Likewise, Chloe Lipton wrote about popular vacation destinations that will ultimately be affected by the climate crisis in the next 50 years.

In this last month of the semester, I encourage our readers to find some time to step away from work and computers. Take the time to recharge and reset, whatever that looks like for you and your schedule.

EDITOR IN CHIEF ALLYSON KONZ

Head to Toe Hydration

MODA’S GUIDE TO HYDRATING YOUR ENTIRE BODY, INSIDE AND OUT

By Jamie Randall, Lifestyle Staff Writer • Graphics by Emma Gray, Arts Curator

Nobodylikes waking up in the morning with a scratchy throat or cracked lips. The sayings “Hydrate or Diedrate’’ and “Hydration Nation” are good phrases to remind yourself to hydrate your body. It should be something that is always incorporated into your daily routine from the moment you wake up until your head hits the pillow. Here is Moda’s guide on how to keep your body refreshed.

Face Serums

Face serums are also known as “lightweight moisturizers” because they leave out heavy ingredients when compared to your average moisturizer. The purpose of a face serum is to shrink your pores, increase moisture levels, smooth texture and firm your skin. However, for the best moisture lock-in, it is recommended to apply moisturizer right after you apply serum. The serum focuses on the concentration of active ingredients unlike normal moisturizers do. These ingredients are antioxidants such as vitamin C, anti-inflammatories like zinc and hydrators such as amino acids.1

Face serums can be found almost anywhere. For some great ones, check out Glossier and Lancome’s serums. Glossier’s Super Bounce serum has hyaluronic acid which pulls moisture into the skin and holds it there for long lasting hydration.2 For a more intense serum, Lancome’s advanced antioxidant serum is meant to soothe the skin from dryness and redness while moisturizing it against the UVA rays.3

When it comes to face masks, one size does not fit all. Some people’s skin is more dry and sensitive than others. Therefore, it’s important to know which types of masks fit your skin. Here are masks meant to hydrate skin that come in different forms.

Aqua Boost Hydrating Gel Face Masks

Found on Amazon, these awardwinning masks are great for travel and contain natural ingredients that soothe dry skin.

Ultra Repair Instant Oatmeal Mask

Known as the best mask for sensitive, dry skin, this mask is meant to soothe

1 Oliver, D. (2015, March 03). What the heck is face serum?

2 Hyaluronic acid PRO Vitamin b5 Serum: SUPER BOUNCE. (n.d.)

3 Advanced génifique sensitive antioxi dant face serum: Lancôme. (n.d.).

skin and reduce redness in minutes. For the best results, apply just once a week.

Woke Bae Whenever Moisture Spritz

While this is an uncommon form for a product to come in, this spritz provides quick hydration and softens fine lines with a collage boost.4

Lotion is another product that needs to be in your daily routine to keep you moisturized and healthy. Here are some lotions recommended by dermatologists to help soothe and rehydrate your body.5

CeraVe

This face lotion is everywhere and is simple, fragrance-free, effective and affordable. It’s great for students on a budget dealing with sensitive skin.

Eucerin Advanced Repair

This body lotion is a thinner substitute for the thick and creamy lotions. It still manages to get the job done and will keep your skin nice and hydrated up to 48 hours.

Aveeno Eczema Therapy

This lotion includes ceramides and oatmeal, which are known to decrease inflammation, perfect for people who suffer from eczema.

Aquaphor Using Aquaphor or Vaseline to rehydrate your cracked and damaged skin should be a no brainer at this point. These products can be found anywhere from Walgreens to Amazon.

Aquaphor doesn’t only rehydrate cracked skin but it is also effective at healing chapped lips, minor cuts and burns due to its main ingredient petroleum, which helps the skin retain moisture.6 If lotions don’t do enough for you, it’s the perfect way to keep your skin hydrated.

Another no brainer for keeping your body hydrated is water. Keep in mind that everybody’s bodies are different. Enjoying water can be as easy as

4 Earley, B. (2021, January 04). These face masks will give your dry skin a dewy glow.

5 Anello, C. (2021, February 25). The best Body lotions for dry Skin, according TO DERMATOLOGISTS.

6 Donahue, Rosemary. “Heres’s Why Aquaphor Is My Favorite Beauty Product EVER.” Allure, n.d.

adding fruit like cucumbers, lemons or raspberries to enhance the flavor of water without adding sugar or extra carbs.

As college students, we are constantly moving around and going places whether it’s to the gym, to study or to hangout with friends. What better way to stay hydrated and also save the planet then by bringing a reusable water bottle? Here is a list of the most popular reusable water bottle brands.7

Hydro Flask

Carried around by almost every teen and college student, this reusable is BPA free, made of stainless steel and is designed to keep your beverage at its desired temperature. These bottles come in adorable pastel colors as well which are appealing to the eye. So head on the Hydro Flask website and order yourself a 32 ounce bottle. You only need to drink 2.5 of them to achieve recommended hydration.

Nalgene

Sold on Amazon and many other department stores, Nalgene is sustainable, affordable and has a variety of sizes. It has measurements on the side of the water bottle so you can track how much water you consumed.

S’Well

Similar to a Hydro Flask, this stainless steel water bottle comes in cute prints and a variety of sizes. It’s great to keep at your desk to remind yourself to stay hydrated.

CamelBack

This BPA free water bottle doesn’t leak and ranges in sizes so can use it anywhere and comes with a straw and soft mouthpiece.

The key to better skin and feeling good is hydration. As we get older, it’s important to keep taking care of yourself and something as simple as drinking water can have a big impact on your wellbeing. Moisturizers, serums, and lotions are excellent for face hydration but they work best when complemented with a body that is well hydrated. What’s most important is finding what works for you and continuing with it. ■

7 Fritz, A. (n.d.). The 10 best water bottles of 2021.

Crafty Chic Crafty Chic

HOW THIS YEAR’S SPRING FASHION IS BEING DOMINATED BY CROCHET AND KNIT PIECES

By Manon Bushong, Assistant Fashion Editor Photographed by Bela Orzechowski, Staff Photographer Modeled by Manon Bushong

Due to social distancing regulations, many people have decided to use their extra free time as an opportunity to pick up a new hobby, whether it be baking, embroidery, or learning an instrument. Given the creative and DIY nature of the past year, it is no surprise that one of this spring’s biggest fads is crochet fashion. This trend is gender and size inclusive, and extends far beyond the sweaters you received around Christmas from relatives.

While dozens of fast fashion labels have picked up on the crochet trend and are offering a plethora of options, this look can be achieved easily at home or from small sustainable vendors. Second Daughter

The

are what make

Ella Emhoff, who has a social media presence that she uses in order to promote sustainable choices, has played a major role in the rise of crochet fashion. Emhoff, who is a current student at Parsons, has constructed her own extravagant crochet cardigans and flaunted them on Instagram.1 In her designs, she opts for youthful pastels and silhouettes, which is reflected in the mint and baby pink “granny square house coat” she proudly showed off on her Instagram in August.2 Emhoff also frequently advocates for shopping small, and has advertised small handles such as @everyones_mother, @its_memorialday, and @ baileyxgoldberg, of which offer any sort of crochet good you may need, whether it’s a tote bag, matching ensemble, or playful bucket hat.

You certainly do not have to have the Vice President as your stepmom to participate in the crochet trend. Whether you pick a piece off Etsy or take to YouTube to learn how to make something yourself, embracing 1Clark, M. (2021, March 12). Ella Emhoff is making Crochet happen, and we’re here for it.

2 Ibid.

crochet fashion is sure to warm you up after a long, COVIDdampened winter. While sweaters are an obvious choice, crochet pants have also been extremely coveted this season. Bright colors and patterns combined with flare silhouettes gives a nod to seventies nostalgia. Pants composed of varying colored “granny squares,” a basic crochet technique, is one just style seen everywhere from online shops to trending YouTube tutorials.

On the Today Show this past February, Harry Styles wowed in JW Anderson’s Color Block Patchwork Cardigan / Knit Pattern.34 The designer piece cost a lofty $1,600, however, fans have not let this high price stop them from recreating the look.5 The sweater trended on TikTok, as people flaunted their DIY versions, some of which were impressively similar. Styles’ popular look is also evidence of how this trend is entirely androgynous.

3 Nesvig, K. (2020, June 18). TikTok users are recreating HARRY Styles’s “TODAY SHOW” CARDIGAN.

4 JW Anderson| shop the official online boutique. (n.d.).

5 Nesvig, K. (2020, June 18). TikTok users are recreating HARRY Styles’s “TODAY SHOW” CARDIGAN.

Embracing crochet is certainly not limited to clothing. Accessories, including hats, bags, and hair scarfs, are an extremely fun way to incorporate this crafty trend into your look. Popular Instagram influencers have paved the way for this, including Mia Regan (@ mimimoocher), who frequently flaunts a fun crochet strawberry hat from POC & woman owned brand bubblycrochetbylisa (@ bubblycrochetbylisa) in her posts. Additionally, Emma Chamberlain (@emmachamberlain) has shown off a green and white plaid crochet bag by homemade brand, Liming Shop (@liming_shop). If you are interested in learning this hobby yourself, a tote bag is the perfect beginner endeavor that will ultimately leave you with a one-of-a-kind accessory.

The versatility and limitless possibilities of crochet are what make this huge spring trend so exciting. Fashion that doubles as a do-it-yourself activity will never go out of style, and I’m sure I’m not alone when I say learning how to crochet is high on my bucket list for this summer.

■

versatility and limitless possibilities of crochet make this huge spring trend so exciting.

A Guide Perfect Outdoor

By Maya Greenberg, Photographed by Molly Jacobs, Modeled by Maya Greenberg

Guide to Your Outdoor Date

Greenberg, Contributing Writer Jacobs, Staff Photographer Greenberg and Sam Witt

AsWisconsin finally thaws, it’s the perfect time for a serene outside date.

I began perfecting the outdoor date last summer, when COVID-19 was peaking and I wanted to protect my immunocompromised boyfriend while still spending time together. We couldn’t risk spreading any germs, but in an effort to impress him, I started preparing “deck nights.” I decorated my deck with an array of pillows and blankets, bought some fancy cheeses to make a charcuterie board and set the scene with serene string lights.

With the right amount of lights, food, good weather and entertainment, you can turn any outdoor space into a romantic date.

Finding a romantic spot is the first step to planning your outdoor date. Try to find a location that is easy to get to, but secluded enough so that you still have privacy. From Picnic Point to James Madison Park, Madison is filled with scenic locations to choose from, especially as the weather gets warmer.

Once you know where you’re going, think about what food to bring. In the warmer months, fresh fruit and charcuterie boards are always perfect. You can bring your favorite cheeses, crackers, meats and olives. If you really want to impress your date, put the food together yourself instead of buying it premade. Pack them separately and arrange

them once you’re at the date location to avoid any spillage.

For fresh fruits and veggies, check out the Saturday Market on the Square at Capitol Square, which is held every Saturday morning from April through November.1 Picking out food together and supporting local farmers is a great way to prepare for your date!

Although outdoor dates are great opportunities for you and your partner to get to know one another, it never hurts to bring some extra entertainment. I never attend an outing without bringing my mini speaker. Having music in the background completes the scene, and having some extra noise can soothe any awkwardness there may be if conversation lulls.

Movies are perfect entertainment for an evening date, streamed from a laptop or a projector. Since you’ll be outside and wifi may be unreliable, download movies on Netflix or another streaming service ahead of time. If you decide to stay home and have your date on your deck or in your backyard, a mini projector can transform the area into your own private theatre.

While all of these factors are important, I always look forward to putting together my outfit. First and foremost, wear something comfortable.2

1 Derby, Samara Kalk. “Dane County Farmers’ Market to open outdoor season at Alliant, expects return to Square”. Wisconsin State Journal, March 11, 2021.

2 Taylor, Elise. “What to Wear on a

The last thing you want is to have to walk up a hill in five inch heels, or have to focus on pulling your dress down so the wind doesn’t cause you to flash your date. Go with a cute and breezy outfit. Try whites and beiges, as long as you’re okay with a little mud, or pull that long sundress out of your closet and pair it with some sandals. And whatever outfit you decide on, make sure it’s one that makes you feel confident.

The pandemic has made dating look a little different, but it has also allowed us to see the importance of appreciating the outdoors. Even when COVID-19 is a thing of the past, a picnic date in the sun or a movie night under the stars will always be romantic. ■

Socially Distanced Date”. Vogue, October 3, 2020.

The Ugly Truth

GENOCIDE IS STILL HAPPENING, AND IT’S TIME WE TALK ABOUT IT

By Gabrielle Gronewold, Culture Editor Graphic by Rose Quinlan

TW: Discussion of rape, forced sterilization, genocide crimes and violence

Following the Holocaust, nations around the globe vowed to never let genocide happen again, via the United Nations Genocide Convention. Despite this utopian ideal, genocides have continued to exist with striking parallels to their violent historic predecessors. Yet we don’t talk about this ugly truth enough as a society.

By definition, the United Nations has defined genocide as committing acts with the intent to destroy a whole or a part of a national, ethnic, racial or religious group through the means of killing members of the group, inflicting serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group, deliberately inflicting conditions of life on to members of the group with the intent to cause physical destruction and forcibly transferring children of the group to another group. Crafted in December of 1948, the international law against genocide intended to prevent and punish genocide, yet over half a century later in 2021, these human rights violations still exist in many countries, including the United States.1

Since 1948, genocides such as those in Cambodia, Rwanda, Srebrenica, Darfur and many other human rights violations have resulted in the deaths of millions of individuals on the basis of their identity. Today, there are currently millions of people losing their lives and being impacted by genocide crimes, such as the current genocide against Uyghur muslims in China.

Furthermore, the actions of the United States government under multiple administrations have

1 “Convention on the Prevention and Punish ment of the crime of Genocide,” UN, Deceme ber 9, 1948.

arguably fit the UN definition of genocide, most recently through separating immigrant children from their families and allegations of illegal hysterectomies performed on immigrant women in detainment centers.2 A pediatrician visiting a Border Patrol Facility in Texas reported “extreme cold temperatures, lights on 24 hours a day, no adequate access to medical care, basic sanitation, water, or adequate food.”3 It may be uncomfortable to analyze these facilities as such, but it is evident that there are human rights violations happening in the land of the free.

Part of the sentiment contributing to the idea that genocides are a thing of the past is in the way we teach about them. In the American education system, many curriculums focus on the Holocaust when teaching students about genocide or 20th century European history. Stanford Professor Elliot Eisner defines the exclusion of other genocides from education systems as a “null curriculum.” Null curriculum contributes to the lack of awareness that 1) genocides have happened consistently throughout history and that 2) genocides are happening in low-income, non-western societies.4 While the Holocaust is history’s widest documented genocide, focusing education solely around this event makes it appear that genocide is an isolated incident of the past, and neglects to acknowledge its long-term aftermath, such as the high rates of antisemitism that are still prevalent today. In reality, genocide is much more widespread than this, affecting many people of many identities globally. →

2 “ICE Whistleblower: Mexico Investigating US Immigrant ‘Sterilisations’.” BBC News. BBC, September 23, 2020.

3 Serena Marshall, Lana Zak and Jennifer Metz, “Doctor compares conditions for unaccompa nied children at immigrant holding centers to ‘torture facilities’,” ABC News, June 23, 2019.

4 Ibid.

Education isn’t the only contributing factor in why modern genocide isn’t widely understood. News media has continuously missed the mark on informing citizens of genocide crimes in a timely and comprehensive matter. In 1994, approximately 500,000 Rwandan Tutsi — 80% of the country’s Tutsi population — were killed in the Rwandan Genocide. Considered one of the most efficient genocides of modern time, the killings took place over roughly three months. However Western media failed to report on the violence until three weeks into the events, at which point 250,000 Tutsi had already lost their lives.5

COVID-19 and public health have dominated the news cycle due to the need to inform on mask mandates and vaccine rollouts. But human rights violations did not wait for the end of the pandemic, and the lack of public interest is a sign of our lack of awareness of what modern genocide looks like.

The main reason the news experienced a lapse in coverage was due to the Rwandan government misleading the public and international leaders to believe that a civil war was occurring, rather than a genocide. Rwanda had been plagued by civil war from 1990 to 1993 and by leading people to believe the war had continued, they were able to carry out their plan for three weeks without attracting too much attention from American media.6

I would like to think there have been lessons learned from the lack of Western coverage of the Rwandan Genocide, but the outlook is grim considering the lack of genocide coverage during the last few years. COVID-19 and public health have dominated the news cycle due to the need to inform on mask mandates and vaccine rollouts. But human rights violations did not wait for the end of the pandemic, and the lack of public interest is a sign of our lack of awareness of what modern genocide looks like.

5 Alan Kuperman, “How the media missed the Rwanda Genocide,” International Press Institute, July 1 2003.

6 Ibid.

For example, human rights groups believe China has detained millions of Uyghur muslims for the last few years into “re-education camps,”7 on the basis that the Uyghur population is seeking autonomy and sovereignty.8 Despite this, the Newlines Institute just produced the first independent report on the ongoing treatment of the Uyghur people with the application of the UN’s 1948 Genocide Convention on March 8 of this year9 and the U.S. government did not acknowledge China’s behaviors as genocide until late January of this year.10 We are seeing history repeat itself as the Chinese government has continued oppressing the Uyghurs and yet serious efforts to define and treat this as a genocide are just now beginning here in America.

Women in these camps are being raped, sexually abused and tortured, including through the use of forced sterilization. A woman named Tursunay Ziawudun spent nine months in one of these camps. She shared with the BBC many of the horrific, indescribable actions and details of her time there claiming “Their goal is to destroy everyone,” and “everybody knows it.”11

This motive to destroy an entire ethno-religious group can be clearly seen in the Chinese government’s sterilization efforts. Hundreds of thousands of women are routinely subject to pregnancy tests, IUD insertions, abortions and permanent sterilization as an attempt to erase the population.12 This is the textbook definition example of what the UN means by

7 BBC News, “Who are the Uighers and why is China being accused of geno cide?” March 26, 2021.

8 Deirdre Shesgreen, “The US says China is committing genocide against the Uyghurs. Here’s some of the most chilling evidence,” USA Today, April 2 2021.

9 “The Uyghur Genocide: An Examination of China’s Breaches of the 1948 Genocide Convention,” Newslines Institue, March 8, 2021.

10 Deirdre Shesgreen, “The US says China is committing genocide against the Uyghurs. Here’s some of the most chilling evidence,” USA Today, April 2 2021.

11 Matthew Hill, David Campanale and Joel Gunter, “‘Their goal is to destroy everyone’: Uighur camp detainees allege systematic rape,” BBC News, Feburary 2, 2021.

12 The Associated Press, “China cuts Ui ghur births with IUDs, abortion, steriliza tion” June 28, 2020.

intending to destroy a specific group of people.

Beyond forced sterilization women are also subject to horrible sex crimes. Explained as a scene of organized rape by the BBC, Ziawudun shared that men “would pay money to have their pick of the prettiest young inmates,” and that everyday women were being locked up in chains and raped repeatedly.13

It is difficult to hear about the terrible things happening to women in these circumstances. But that is why it is so important to be aware of current events and listen to people’s experiences. It may be easier to turn a blind eye, but by sitting with and listening to the experiences of others we can all become more informed citizens and begin to hold perpetrators accountable.

The problem is that genocide is an ongoing problem. When the UN implemented the 1948 Genocide Convention, it was successful in defining what genocide is, but it’s not doing much for how efficiently we react to them.

It’s ignorant to think that genocides are no longer a reality. The principle that ignorance is bliss comes into play and it’s easy to imagine a world where the problems we experience and discuss are the same problems that everyone, everywhere also experiences or discusses. But that is not true.

Beyond our own personal oasis of bliss and independent struggle, there is an entire world of hate and violence that we know nothing about. The weight of this can be heavy, but it’s why we need to continue to strengthen conversations around human rights violations. Think critically about the treatment of groups of people, be an ethical and conscious media consumer and above all don’t fall prey to the idea that genocides are our history when they are very much a part of our present.

■

13 Matthew Hill, David Campanale and Joel Gunter, “‘Their goal is to destroy everyone’: Uighur camp detainees allege systematic rape,” BBC News, Feburary 2, 2021.

It’s ignorant to think that genocides are no longer a reality. The principle that ignorance is bliss comes into play and it’s easy to imagine a world where the problems we experience and discuss are the same problems that everyone, everywhere also experiences or discusses. But that is not true.

A Home Away From Home

SAFE SPACES ON THE UW-MADISON CAMPUS

By Elizabeth Karnowski, Culture Staff Writer Photographed by Brendan McFadden, Contributing Photographer

Historically, BIPOC, AAPI and LGBTQ+ students have been largely underrepresented at UWMadison. As of Oct. 2020, only 11.7% of all undergraduate students identified as part of a minority group.1 UW-Madison needs to address this lack of diversity, but it also needs to make sure that when these students are one campus they feel at home. One of the important ways to address this issue is supporting community-building and making space for people to feel safe and welcomed, no matter their identity. To do this, the school has created safe spaces for people to find others who share their culture or identity and have a home away from home at UW. The Red Gym is home to a variety of centers that were made with these interests in mind.

The Multicultural Student Center

This center offers an educational, as well as social environment. They have tables for studying, but also supply funding to help with any school-related financial needs and are affiliated with multicultural student organizations in order to promote a more inclusive community that celebrates every student and what they uniquely bring to this campus.

Their website states, “The primary mission of the Multicultural Student Center is to collaboratively strengthen and sustain an inclusive campus where all students, particularly students of color and other historically underserved students, can realize an authentic Wisconsin Experience.”2

Identity Centers

Within the Multicultural Student Center there are specific identity centers, such as the Black, Latinx and Asian-Pacific Islander Desi American Student Cultural Centers. In these cultural centers, students can participate in cultural events and find community support systems led by staff members that share their identities.

International Student Services

Another service that comes out of the Red Gym is the International Student Services. They serve international students at UW-Madison to help them with school and post-graduate advising. It supports students by filling out any documents related to their F or J visa, which allows them to study in America.

International Student Services also offers information about social justice movements, inclusive student organizations and financial aid.3

Gender and Sexuality Campus Center

Lastly, The Gender and Sexuality Campus Center is located in room 123 of the Red Gym. They provide a

1 University of Wisconsin-Madison, “Diversity Forum”, University of Wisconsin-Madison, October 2020.

2 Multicultural Student Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison Student Affairs, 2021.

3 International Student Services, University of Wisconsin-Madison Student Affairs, 2021.

safe space for the LGBTQ+ community by having staff that are part of the community, as well as giving students the opportunity to meet people who identify with them. They offer information to keep students informed about topics that pertain to the community.

They also offer discussion groups on gender exploration, fluid sexualities, LGBTQ+ questioning students, and LGBTQ+ identifying students who talk about substance abuse, sobriety and recovery.4

The Gender Sexuality Campus Center is a safe spot for those who identify as LGBTQ+ and students who are questioning. There are many resources available in order to make students feel at home.

The Women’s Health Clinic

The Women’s Health Clinic is provided at University Health Services. This clinic offers STI testing, gynecology appointments and other services that pertain to the health of women.5 This is a great place for female-identifying and menstruating students to receive medical attention.

The Student Inclusion Coalition of Madison Madison offers centers and clinics available to students, but it’s also important to recognize the student organizations on campus that are actively striving toward a more inclusive campus. The Student Inclusion Coalition of Madison advocates for the social, academic and emotional wellness of all marginalized students on campus. Students in this coalition fight for the rights of students who are underrepresented on campus in order to make their voices heard at UW, not just to other students but to faculty and staff.6 They have put together protests, but the most notable was their video made to retaliate against the original 2019 Homecoming video.7

Having safe spaces is beneficial to make all students feel included on campus. Studies have shown that imposter syndrome is common among African-, Asian-, and Latino/a-American college students and that imposter feelings are negatively associated with poor psychological stress during their educational experiences.8 Having spaces on campus where people can feel comfortable no matter what helps with students’ mental health, which ultimately gives them a more positive college experience. ■

4 Gender and Sexuality Campus Center, University of Wiscon sin-Madison Student Affairs, 2021.

5 Women’s Health Clinic, University Health Services, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2021.

6 @SICofUW, Student Inclusion Coalition of UW-Madison, Twitter, 2019.

7 @SICofUW, Student Inclusion Coalition of UW-Madison, Twitter, 2019.

8 Dena M. Bravata, Divya K. Madhusudhan, Michael Boroff, Kevin O. Cokely, “Commentary: Prevalence, Predictors, and Treatment of Imposter Syndrome: A Systematic Review”, Journal of Mental Health and Clinical Psychology”, August 24, 2020.

From Tragedy to Artistry

HOW FRIDA KAHLO USED PAINTING AS A CATHARTIC RELEASE

By Madison Targum, Contributing Writer Graphic by Sammy Meyerson

Escapism is a common theme among artists of all mediums. Whether it’s through painting or sculpting, the act of creation can allow one to be reflective and critical of the world around them. At first glance, Frida Kahlo’s work is recognizable not only by the vivacious flowers in her hair but also for her obsessive use of her own face and varying depictions of her own body. Salvador Dalí is celebrated for his surrealist tactics and everyone’s eyes go wide for the vibrant nature of the works of Andy Warhol. But unlike her male counterparts, Frida Kahlo is the epitome of introspective art — utilizing paint and self-portraiture to bear the pain of her turbulent reality and resurrect her soul after each struggle.

The catalyst for Kahlo’s work was a traumatic streetcar accident she suffered at 18-years-old that left her with serious impairment of her pelvis, backbone and spine.1 While recovering, Kahlo taught herself to paint which resulted in haunting and stunningly unique pieces that would define 20th century art.2 Kahlo took inspiration from her own life, expressing her own lens of the world through art and surreal tableaus. After experiencing miscarriages and being unable to have children, Frida famously said “I paint flowers so they will not die.”3 She represented experiences of infertility and motherhood through her art, appealing and relating to the female experience. Kahlo’s intricate placing of flowers sprouting out of wombs and fetuses represents the cathartic release of emotions in painting these symbols of her own life.

As viewers of her art, we are also invited into Kahlo’s tumultuous marriage to Mexican muralist Diego Rivera. At the time of their meeting Rivera was

1 Fernando Antelo. “Pain and the Paint brush: The Life and Art of Frida Kahlo.”

AMA Journal of Ethics: Illuminating Art of Medicine, May 2013.

2 Phyllis Tuchman. “ Frida Kahlo.” Smith sonian Magazine, November 2002.

3 David Levesley. “11 Frida Kahlo Quotes that will Inspire any young artist.” Mic Media, July 14 2014.

an established muralist in the Mexican mural movement while Kahlo was still up-and-coming. The couple was extremely passionate about their joint political associations with the Mexican Communist party and the revival of indigenous Mexican traditions.

While known as a tight-knit duo across the globe, Rivera’s infidelity emotionally drained Kahlo. The open relationship that had survived other affairs ruptured when Frida found out about Diego’s romance with her sister Cristina.4 Despite the mental toll of Rivera’s extramarital affairs, Kahlo also portrayed her hopeless devotion to Rivera through her art. In her famous piece “The Love Embrace of the Universe, the Earth (Mexico), Myself, Diego, and Señor Xolotl” Kahlo paints herself holding her husband while nestled in the lap of an indigenous goddess.5 While it looks like the couple’s union is being sustained by the balance of light and darkness, details in the painting reveal Kahlo is trying to find a reason to hold onto her husband. Although she appears tranquil, tears still trickle down from her cheeks, and a bright red fissure splits open her neck and chest. Kahlo takes charge of the narrative of her relationship through her art, reflecting her hopes, but also her challenging reality. Despite the turmoil stirring inside her, Kahlo expresses through her meticulous details that if she could not be Diego’s only love, she would continue to care for him with the undaunting love of a mother.

A major turning point in Kahlo’s work comes after her divorce from Rivera. In the painting “Selfportrait with Cropped Hair,” the woman usually decked out in traditional Tehuana dresses with full skirts depicts herself in a men’s attire.6 Some critics

4 Javier Aranda Luna. “The Elephant and the Dove: A look at Frida and Diego’s Relationship.” Google Arts & Culture.

5 Maria Isabel Carrasco. “11 paintings that depict Frida Kahlo’s Vision of Female Sexuality.” Cultura Colectiva, May 9 2017.

6 Hettie Judah. “The Real Story Behind Frida Kahlo’s Style.” The New York Times, June 15 2018.

say this piece is where Kahlo renounces her femininity due to the ill-fitting dark suit and the transformative cutting of her long black braids.7 However, in many ways this act of cutting her hair gives leeway to a journey of self-discovery and return to her old habits before being labeled as Rivera’s wife. It symbolizes cutting away at patriarchal norms and defiance against the expectations of traditional womanhood. Kahlo essentially returns to rebelling towards gender normativity by embracing her individuality against beauty standards of the era. In self-portraits, Kahlo leaves her masuline features untouched and exaggerates her natural body hair to provoke something in her viewers. She shows us that

self. On the right, modernlydressed Frida is regally clothed grasping onto the heart of past Frida, portraying herself as the new gatekeeper of both hearts. The juxtaposition of their facial expressions allows the viewer to see Frida as a phoenix rising from the ashes of her past: the wounded reviving her own spirit. Connected by hearts, these two Fridas underscore an introduction to self-love and a discovery of self-acceptance that she had previously lost.

Through turning private experiences into public art, the act of creating and sharing allowed Kahlo to find some light in darkness. External pressures had infiltrated Kahlo’s sense of self-worth as she could not fulfill

if she can express her desires despite the societal pressures around her, it gives us inspiration to escape the confines of our own realities.

Moreover, in her efforts to cope with her struggles with family and identity, Kahlo created The Two Fridas. This double self-portrait highlights the dueling sides of Frida’s self. Initially writing in her diary that the painting originated from the idea of an imaginary childhood friend, Kahlo later admitted that it expressed her desperation and loneliness from her separation.8On the left, a traditional Frida sits mourning her past with her chest sliced open by scissors. Basically bleeding out onto her traditional white clothing, past Frida is connected to the manifestation of a more independent future

7 Fernando Antelo. “Pain and the Paint brush: The Life and Art of Frida Kahlo.”

AMA Journal of Ethics: Illuminating Art of Medicine, May 2013.

8 Dewi Nurjuwita. “The Meaning Be hind Some of Frida Kahlo’s Most Iconic Works.” Lifestyle Asia, June 19 2018.

the feminine roles that were expected of her. Yet, Kahlo is also a perfect example of embracing and expressing inner emotions no matter how they could be perceived by others.

The world continues to spin underneath us with its foundational values of uniformity and traditions, but there is value in expressing desires and frustrations with our present realities. So whether it is actual broken bones, a case of a broken heart or a vision of a happy place, art gives us the opportunity to make reality what we want, maybe even making it into something beautiful. Frida Kahlo shows us that one can transcend suffering no matter what stage of life you are in — you are in control of your narrative in whatever form you choose to present it to the world.

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Frida Kahlo shows us that one can transcend suffering no matter what stage of life you are in — you are in control of your narrative in whatever form you choose to present it to the world.

Why Do We Dream?

A LOOK INTO THEORIES BEHIND THE MEANING OF DREAMS

By Jessica Katz, Lifestyle Editorial Assistant •Illustrated by Ella Cunz

When we fall asleep, our minds stay awake. We may not always remember our dreams, and we may not even always dream, but there must be some reason for the stories our mind creates when we close our eyes and drift into deep slumber.

A dream is an image, thought or feeling we experience during sleep.1 On average, we dream for around two hours in a full night’s sleep. This can occur during any stage, but research has shown that dreams are the most intense during the rapid eye movement (REM) stage. This is because during REM, brain activity is increased, making dreams more vivid. Meanwhile, non-REM dreams tend to involve thoughts or memories related to a specific time and place.2

Despite numerous experiments, there is no conclusive answer for why we dream. However, there are many purposes of dreaming. They impact our executive functioning, the skills we use to manage daily life. Dreams help strengthen memory and informational recall. They also help us process emotion, by allowing us to engage with and rehearse feeling in imagined contexts. They also can act as mental housekeeping, “straightening up” our brain as we clear away unnecessary information.3

Nightmares can also affect our minds. If frequent, they may interfere with a person’s sleep, causing impaired thinking and mood during the day.4

Some of us are fascinated with the meaning of our dreams. How does my dream relate to my past 1Suni, Eric. 2020. “Dreams: Why We Dream & How They Affect Sleep.” Sleep Foundation.

2 Ibid.

3 Ibid.

4 Ibid.

or present? Who is involved? Is it a sign of some sort?

As the founder of psychoanalysis, Freud believed in the power of unconsciousness; to him, dreams revealed unconsciously repressed conflicts or wishes.5 He studied his own dreams, concluding that details from such experiences showed imagery from childhood that had since been repressed.6

The Activation Synthesis Hypothesis explained otherwise.7 This theory was proposed by Harvard psychiatrists John Allan Hobson and Robert McCarley who view dreams as electrical brain impulses that randomly pull thoughts or images from our memories. The authors also note we may construct dream stories after we wake up as a natural attempt to make sense of it all, however dreams don’t actually have meaning.

Lastly, Threat Simulation Theory assumes we dream more when in a state of fear or anxiety.8

5Atherton, Sam. 2021. “What Do Our Dreams Mean? The Theories Behind Dream Meanings.” Dreams.

6“The Interpretation of Dreams.” n.d. Freud Museum London.

7 Cherry, Kendra. 2020. “What Is the Activation-Synthesis Model of Dreaming?” VeryWellMind.

8Ibid.

According to this theory, dreams act as a defense mechanism our brains create to prepare us for future threats. Research found that children living in more physically and psychological threatening environments have highly activated dream production. Dreams allow us to face our fears in a safe simulation.

It may be impossible to truly discover the meaning behind our dreams. They may tell us something about ourselves, but we can’t trust dreams to reveal our future. However, don’t let that discourage you from analyzing your dreams or keeping a dream journal. The spirituality of dreams and finding meaning in your subconscious can be personally illuminating and reduce stress. Continue to be curious about the most mystifying aspect of sleep and dream on. ■

Photographed by Bela Orzechowski, Staff Photographer, and Jessica Tenenbaum, Staff Photographer Directed by Sam Starks, Creative Director • Assisted by Emily Fleming, Creative Director Assistant, Marina Scerpella and Madeleine Olson, Creative Team • Modeled by Lucy Phillips

At the beginning of the 2020 fall semester, the University of WisconsinMadison faculty voted to cancel spring break in order to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. They opted instead to extend winter break an extra week and start the spring semester late, leaving students and staff with 14 straight weeks of class, without the mental break many students and faculty needed.

The World Health Organization shared that after the initial outbreak of the pandemic, mental health services in 93% of countries worldwide were disrupted or halted altogether.1 This came at a time when the need for these critical services was increasing.

“Bereavement, isolation, loss of income and fear are triggering mental health conditions or exacerbating existing ones,” the World Health Organization said.

“Many people may be facing increased levels of alcohol and drug use, insomnia, and anxiety.”2

UW-Madison’s decision to cancel spring break did seem rational given the state of the pandemic at the time. I believe taking any precaution against spreading the virus is important, especially before the vaccine is widely available, and attempting to prevent travel is a good way to do that. But it also walks the delicate line between two important choices: prioritizing public health or prioritizing mental health?

“I think that’s a really difficult question,” Koda Parker, a sophomore at UW, shared.

“Because of how long COVID-19 1 “COVID-19 disrupting mental health services in most countries, WHO survey,” World Health Organization, October 2020.

2 Ibid.

Balancing Act

SHOULD UW-MADISON PRIORITIZE PUBLIC HEALTH OR MENTAL HEALTH?

By Kora Quinn, Culture Staff Writer Photographed by Annika Ide, Photography Director

has been going on, mental health has become more and more of a concern. But at the same time, it’s really important to take care of people’s physical health. But I think given that the University has been taking a lot of COVID-19 precautions, maybe putting a little bit more focus on mental health right now would be important.”

With UW-Madison’s strict response to COVID-19 on campus this spring semester, I would agree that focusing attention on mental health would benefit students more. Emma Cholip, a senior at UW, said spring break should not have been canceled. She shared, “I feel like a lot of the reasoning behind it [canceling spring break] was to keep students from traveling to other places and prevent the continuous spread of COVID-19. But, I find the issue with that to be that students are traveling anyway. Especially with so many classes being online, I think it’s going to be a pretty trite effort.”

With many professors not taking attendance and recording Zoom lectures, students who want to travel can easily miss class without any drawbacks. While traveling frequently during a pandemic is irresponsible and should still be avoided, canceling spring break had little effect on COVID-19 prevention. Instead, it only added stress to students and staff who had to work the entire semester without a break.

When asked about whether or not the University should prioritize public or mental health, Cholip claimed, “That’s tough because they’re both incredibly important things . . . certain things matter more to certain people. People who have anxiety and depression and things like that are going to

need more care for their mental health. People who are a bit more neurotypical are probably going to need more of the public health point-of-view.”

As someone with all online classes, not having spring break didn’t affect my ability to get away from Madison if I had wanted to. While I chose to stay in Madison, zoom fatigue caught up with me, as I know it did with many others. Without that breath of fresh air to break the semester up, motivation can start to dwindle. This, paired with academic stress and any personal struggles, would have an adverse effect on a lot of people’s mental health.

Making these decisions for everyone on campus is a balancing act because, as Cholip mentioned, different people need different things. Even without a built-in break to alleviate stress, the University has mental health resources — for stress, families, healthcare providers and more — specifically in response to COVID-19.3 Outside of University decisions, some professors even canceled lectures in the week that would have been spring break, and students started a petition for wellness days similar to other universities.4

In the end, we all need to be kind to our bodies and minds and take care of ourselves. Balance news intake with activities you know help relieve stress. Focus on things that calm you when school gets difficult. The end of this is in sight, but know that in the meantime you — and everyone else — should do our best to help end this pandemic and prepare for a fun, safe summer.

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3 “COVID-19 Mental Health Resources Guide & Support,” UW Department of Psychiatry.

4 Avery R., “Give UW-Madison Students Wellness Days,” petition, 2021.

By Grace Reber, Fashion Staff Writer

Photographed by Hannah Huber, Contributing Photographer Modeled by Kamryn Truesdale

Inmost cases, the desert is associated with dry, barren lands harboring little sign of life or creativity. However, the fashion world has taken the earthy tones and breathable fabrics of the badlands and brought them to life with this summer’s upcoming trends.

Moving away from the bright pastels, prevalence of leather, and other heavier fabrics that dominated last summer, the fashion scene of Summer 2021 will consist of mostly oranges, reds, tans, pinks and greens. While these neutral, earthy tones have been making an appearance for the past few months, their popularity will only continue to rise with the temperature. Lightweight, breathable fabrics such as crochet and satin, and sheer sets are a must-have to accommodate the heat.

Many spring and summer runways have been featuring these earthy tones to set the trend for the upcoming season. Alberta Ferretti’s Spring 2021 line is composed of almost exclusively neutrals, featuring salmons and sage greens. The pieces are also adorned with unique patterns and paired with beaded handbags and ornate sandals.1 Ferretti’s new line, among other ready-to-wear runways like Max Mara and Jacquemus, are the perfect places to find style inspiration for your summer wardrobe.

When shopping for your summer must-haves, keep an eye out for looser fitting shapes and smocked styles. From maxi dresses to baggy, straight leggedpants, flowing bodices will have their place in both

1 “SPRING 2021 READY-TO-WEAR Alberta Ferretti.” Vogue. 2021.

men’s and women’s fashion. There is little room for tightfitting, heavy fabrics in the sweltering heat, so pulling pieces reminiscent of a desert explorer will be sure to put you on-trend for the upcoming season.

Accessory-wise, warm tones are everything, featuring bold, gold chains paired with patterned hair silks and bucket hats. Colors and patterns of these accessories inspired by the vegetation and sunsets over the desert sky will be perfect additions to any summer fit. Hair silks are fairly easy to style, so whether they’re worn as a bandana or tied around a low pony, the satin accessory adds a pop of color and a unique twist to even the most basic of outfits.

While bucket hats have been a summer staple for years, this season the simple style is turning toward more ornate patterns and fresh fabrics. From hints of paisley with reds and oranges to floral, crochet styles, adding a trendy bucket hat serves a look both in style and protection from the sun. After a long semester of classes, picking up a new hobby to crochet your own hat is the perfect way to keep yourself busy during the long summer days and create your new favorite accessory.

Whether your closet is filled with inspiration from highend runways or homemade pieces, taking inspiration from the desert and all its beauty is sure to keep you in trend throughout the entire season. Finding an oasis of creativity and influence in an otherwise barren land is the key to style success this summer.

The Gentrification of an Oasis

Written and Illustrated by Allyson Konz, Editor in Chief

What do Jackson, Wyoming and Dorado, Puerto Rico have in common?

This isn’t a poorly prepared punch line; it’s a harsh reality thousands of Americans are facing. In a modern tale of Manifest Destiny, the ultra wealthy are buying up real estate in pristine locations, driving up the prices of homes and crowding out local and lifetime residents.

In his book Billionaire Wilderness, Yale sociologist Justin Farrell discusses the unique challenges that local residents of Jackson, Wyoming face. Teton County, and subsequently Jackson, is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. The county is home to two of the country’s most visited national parks, Grand Teton and Yellowstone, and has three ski resorts.1 97% of Teton County is public land, meaning that opportunities for land development are slim and hard to come by.2

By the nature of this limited space to build, real estate prices have quickly risen to meet the demand of part-time residents, making it extremely difficult for yearlong residents to afford living in Jackson. In 2018, the average price for a single-family home in Jackson was $2.65 million.3 Yet, the average worker in Jackson makes $41,052 a year, making Teton County the most economically unequal place in the United States.4

1 Hansman, Heather. n.d. “America’s Rich est Mountain Town Is Its Most Unequal.” Outdoor.

2 Ibid

Ibid

Ibid

As someone that has been lucky enough to camp twice in the Grand Tetons, it is easy to see the natural draw to live in such a beautiful place. However, why is it that the rich, especially the ultra rich (think: Kanye West) are buying up the real estate in Teton County? Is it truly because of its proximity and opportunities for outdoor activities?

The draw is something less idealistic. Wyoming is rated at number one on Bloomberg Wealth Management’s ranking of America’s most wealth-friendly states.5 Wyoming does not have an income tax and has low property taxes, making it a haven for the ultra wealthy. By switching and claiming residency at their vacation homes in Jackson, multimillionaires and billionaires can save hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on where they are ‘moving’ from. While the ultra rich can afford to buy up the scarce land and properties in Jackson, long-time residents cannot, often forcing them to move an average of 30-40 minutes away, sometimes even across state lines.6

The romanticism of escaping to the west, leaving the hustle of big cities, was exaggerated at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. While local residents were being warned to stay at home and shelter, Jackson Hole’s airport became flooded with tourists from New York and California looking 5 McIntyre, Alex, Jennifer Prince, and Christopher Cannon. n.d. The Best—and Worst—States to Avoid Income Taxes. N.p.: Bloomberg. 6 Ibid

to shelter in their mansions. Millionaires came equipped to practice their privilege at the expense of the rural working-class members of Jackson.

A similar crisis is occurring in Dorado, Puerto Rico.

In February of 2021, influencer Logan Paul announced that he was leaving Los Angeles to move to Dorado, or as he called it, “heaven on earth.” He cited California’s high taxes as his reason for leaving, also offering that he had considered moving to the income-tax-free states of Texas and Florida before deciding on Dorado.7

Many Puerto Ricans were immediately frustrated by the news, including Matthew Thompson, a sophomore at UW-Madison studying computer science. Thompson shared that many multimillionaires (like Paul) have been moving to Dorado Beach East, a luxury resort. The resort itself has its own grocery store, waterpark, golf course and restaurants, among many other things, making it it’s own private community. 8

In Thompson’s words, this allinclusive community attracts many Americans, stating, “They want the tropical oasis but they don’t want the immersive experience of living in a Spanish speaking country or having to deal with locals. They see Puerto Ricans as less in their own country.” 9

7 Wyss, Jim. n.d. Youtube Star Logan Paul Deserts California For Puerto Rico. N.p.: Bloomberg.

8 Interview with Matthew Thompson

9 Ibid

Like Jackson, Wyoming, Puerto Rico has no property tax, making moving to the island an incredible incentive for the ultra wealthy. And yet, it poses the same issue of forcing locals to move or emigrate off the island due to the rising cost of living.

It’s not just the multi-millionaires to blame; private companies see land development on islands such as Puerto Rico as an opportunity to break into the tourism industry and make a large amount of money. Bianca Graulau, an independent journalist from Puerto Rico, took to Tik Tok on March 10 when she was informed that the land behind her house was being sold to a company that develops luxury apartments.

She then goes on to share the concerns many Puerto Ricans have about their land being bought up,

especially when the land is privately owned and protected by the government for agricultural and environmental purposes. Graulau ends on a final note, asking, “Why do we feel the need to disturb nature to extract wealth from it?”10

Graulau investigated the status of the land behind her house, discovering that it was part of a reserve, an additional layer of protection from developers. However, her suspicions arose when she could not find the information about the reserves (which is supposed to be available to the public under the law).

In an exciting turn of events, the government agreed to release the documents of the reserves Friday the 26th of March. Graulau learned that land was indeed a reserve, privileging it extra protection from 10 Bianca Graulau [@biancagraulau] (March 10, 2021). I’ve been struggling with whether to talk about this publicly. I final ly decided to do it. #puertorico #camuy #boricua

private development.

While the fight for the land is not over, Graulau and her community now have the legal documents available to protect the land from development.11

At the end of the day, the residents of Jackson, Wyoming and Dorado, Puerto Rico, are facing tangible challenges due to the wealthy’s personal interests. To the ultra rich, moving to the beautiful and scenic landscapes of Teton County or Dorado Beach East is a way to purchase a slice of paradise; to find an oasis to call one’s own. Yet, it is this commodification, gentrification and modern colonialism of these beautiful spaces that affects the livelihoods of local and long-time residents who view these places as their home before an oasis. ■

More Than a Swimsuit

By Jane Houseal, Fashion Staff Writer Photographed by Hunter Kiehl, Staff Photographer Modeled by Isabella Ramirez

Asthe first signs of summer sneak up on us, many begin searching for the perfect swimsuit. The thought of soaking up the sun and not having to worry about midterms is exciting, but sometimes shopping for a swimsuit can be intimidating. There are so many options and trends to keep up with while finding your perfect look.

Endless options give you the opportunity to find a suit that expresses your personal style. When you are swimwear shopping there is no need to prioritize what is trendy. After all, when shopping for swimwear, quality is most important. Bathing suits made out of quality fabrics are crucial because they maintain their shape and tend to fit better. Investing in one or two well-made suits that make you feel confident and avoiding buying an abundance of trendy suits from fast fashion retailers will leave you with suits that last well past one summer.

Retro Prints

Check out Snrklbar for the coolest collection of bikinis and sarongs ethically made out of deadstock fabric from the 80s and 90s. The site has a wide variety of patterns as well as styles, so there is something for everyone. Cool is a Construct also creates ethically made swim sets in to-die-for retro inspired prints. Their suits are sold as separates, and they even make a matching swim skirt. You can tie the swimsuit bottoms and tops in many ways to create different silhouettes from one set. Frankie’s Bikinis also recently launched a collaboration with actress Hailee Steinfield, that is full of groovy printed bikinis. The collection includes 70s florals, shimmery stripes, terry cloth fabrics and more unique styles.

Accessories

Cover-ups

In addition to finding a unique suit, you can have fun by incorporating stylish cover-ups and accessories into your beach looks. Try wearing a crochet top or loose dresses over your suit for an effortless bohemian outfit. Etsy and any second hand shop are great places to look for crochet pieces. You can also style your swimsuit with a matching short and button down set that is perfect for going from the pool to dinner. To find a killer set check out Free People or Frankie’s Bikinis. Look for sets with beachy details like terry cloth or linen fabric, or summery abstract prints. If you are looking for a minimal cover up, sarongs are perfect for hot days; they can even double as a scarf top or hair accessory if you want to change up your outfit throughout the day. You can find a lot of mesh pieces on Depop; you can also check out stores like Expired Girl and Pretty Little Thing for fun mesh dresses and tops.

Don’t underestimate the power of accessorizing when at the beach or pool! A bathing suit on its own can make you feel bare, so pile on accessories that make you feel like you. Patterned floppy hats are having a moment this summer, and they pair well with many types of swimwear. You can shop for floppy hats at Cotton On, Urban Outfitters and quite a few other retailers. If floppy hats aren’t your thing, a crochet bucket hat is perfect for complimenting your poolside picnic. When looking for a crochet hat, check out Etsy and Instagram independent artists. “TheGiftsForYou” and “EerilySpecific” on Etsy both sell adorable hats.

No matter what other accessories you choose, a classic pair of face flattering sunglasses and your favorite layered jewelry will make you feel unstoppable. You can also mix up the sunglasses and jewelry each time, so even if you re-wear the same suit you will have completely different looks.

Vintage Silhouettes

Don’t be afraid to buy beachwear second hand! Not only is it an affordable and sustainable option, but you can find one of a kind swimwear. Try searching for “90s high cut” or “70s print” bathing suits on Ebay, Poshmark or Depop to find what you are looking for. You can also search vintage brands like “Dreamgirl,” “Zuliana,” “Chica Rica,” and “Hunza G” to find suits with high cut bottoms, 90s style cups, triangle bikini tops and early 2000s o-ring details.

Glitz & Glam

Swimwear brand, Elysiian, sells magical, shimmery suits all made in the United States. The suits come in several gorgeous colors: pink, bronze, beige and blue. Elysiian also has multiple styles to choose from including tops with thin off the shoulder straps and sportier, supportive styles. They also have ribbed and embroidered suits if you’re looking for something a little different. The Australian label, Triangl, also makes some stellar, glittery bikinis in a range of styles. Triangl’s fruity color palette is perfect for summer. With hues from apricot to baby blue to grape, there is a shade for everyone. They have sparkle suits as well as shimmery velvet suits, which come in even more colors.

Sustainable

If you’re looking for a size inclusive, sustainable and body positive swimwear brand that actually designs cute suits, MimiKini is for you. Their delicate floral and exciting animal prints paired with fun peek-a-boo hoop cutouts are absolutely gorgeous, and everything is made using recycled materials and mailed to you in biodegradable garment bags. Vitamin A Swim is another sustainable brand that creates stunning pieces. They are a more expensive option, but if you want a suit that will last, they’ve got you covered with their classic triangle, bandeau and bralette styles.

Budget Friendly

If you’re not sure what you want and like to look at all the choices, try looking at ASOS’s selection of bathing suits. They have a ton of different suits and a helpful shop by fit option. Their choices are affordable and size inclusive, making it a great website to scroll through if you don’t know what you’re looking for. Pacsun is another brand that has many stylish suits for low prices. From terry cloth triangle suits to sportier style printed bikinis, they have something for everyone. For endless swim options and cute cover-ups, check out Blackbough Swim. They carry suits in every color you could imagine, and their beachwear is perfect for completing your summer looks.

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Madison’s Green Spaces

GETTING OUTSIDE IS EASIER THAN YOU THINK

By Shelby Evans, Lifestyle Editor

Have you ever wished you could do something, but thought you lacked the resources to do so?

This is how discussions about the outdoors are often framed: That to enjoy green spaces like national and state parks takes a certain amount of gear and knowledge has to be acquired first.

That’s actually not the case at all. People who are involved with hiking, camping and backpacking for years often emphasize the gear and money it takes to do these activities. The conversation isn’t focused on how to feel comfortable going on your first hike, but the expensive gear you need to do it.

The gatekeeping of the outdoors starts from a young age, especially for girls. According to REI, “Preschool girls are 16 percent less likely to be taken outside by their parents to play than boys their age.”1 Then when women are at an age to learn about themselves and the earth as adults, they are turned off by talk of proper gear and elites emphasizing their expert knowledge.

But here’s a secret: learning to access the outdoors doesn’t have to be getting to famous national parks. It doesn’t even have to be going to costly state parks — it’s your city’s parks department.

1 Katherine Oakes, Closing the gender gap in the outdoors. REI

A number of city parks offer multiple outdoor amenities which include hiking trails. In Madison, the parks department manages over 1600 acres of conservation land.2 Here are just a few places you can go to get in touch with nature without all the gear and hiking training.

Quarry & Hoyt Parks

These two parks are practically right next to each other.

If you live by State Street, catch the 02, 10 or 11 buses using your university metro pass. You’ll only have to ride for 15 minutes and walk just under half a mile to gain entrance to the parks.

If you live by Camp Randall hop on the 6 and ride for 12 minutes before having to walk .6 miles to the entrance of Hoyt. Hoyt Park is 22 acres, it has basketball courts, a playground and paved and unpaved trails to hike. Nearby Quarry Park is 17 acres and has a number of pedestrian and bikeonly trails to wander.

Turville Point Conservation Park

Depending on your side of campus you might have to walk more or less to catch the 13 bus to get to Turville Point Conservation Parl. Your ride wouldn’t be longer than 15 minutes though!

Turville has trails that wind through prairies and forests, and

2 Conservation Parks, City of Madison.

along the Lake Monona shoreline. No loop is longer than 2 miles, but by winding through you can make the day longer if you’d like! They even do a monthly guided hike for free!3

If you’re going to any of these parks, or are thinking about trying out a state park like Devil’s Lake, always make sure that you have a good pair of tennis shoes or hiking sandals and a water bottle! If you’re staying in the city one bottle is enough, but if you want to do longer than a couple of miles always bring extra!

Visiting Wisconsin State Parks website will show you the statewide parks with larger spaces and more intense hikes. Gaining access can be as little as $8 a day, but a car is needed for entrance. An annual pass can be $28 for access to all of the great parks across the state.4

Learning to enjoy the outdoors doesn’t have to be intimidating, costly, or exclusive. The outdoors historically are where people go to feel at peace, something especially important during your college years. Finding time to enjoy the natural beauty of Madison and the rest of Wisconsin is an especially great way to spend time with friends outdoors as the school year winds down. ■

3 CityofMadison.com, Turville Point Con servation Park

4 Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

Directed by Sarah Troy, Fashion Director Photographed by Annika Ide, Photography Director and Seth DeGier, Staff Photographer Modeled by Tenzin Dolma

Five Pieces of Media For The Restless Wanderer

STORIES TO ENTERTAIN US WHILE WE DREAM OF FUTURE TRAVEL

By Olivia Peters, Arts Staff Writer Illustrated by Riley August

This past year, a common theme in many of our lives has been stillness. We’ve been told to keep to ourselves and not move around too much; life has come to a standstill as we navigate the threat of COVID-19. This pause in our lives has disrupted countless plans and our expectations of what the college experience should look like.

As the vaccine becomes more available, and the end of the pandemic becomes a more tangible idea, we see hope glimmering on the horizon. With this hope comes wandering minds, wistful daydreams and promises to our future selves to make up for lost time.

If you’re like me, you’re patiently waiting for the first chance to travel again — whether it’s domestic or international, being in entirely new spaces or experiencing new cultures that are still close to home.

With these last months of patience, here are a few entertainment suggestions to inspire your postpandemic plans, when travel can again become a part of life.

Sally’s progressiveness, pink hair and carefree attitude allow the novel to transcend the 1950s.

Youtuber Rick Steves

“The Dud Avocado” by Elaine Dundy

I recommend this book to friends because it’s outside the canon. Some refer to this book as a cult classic, but the vast majority of our peers have never heard of it. Set in the late 1950s, “The Dud Avocado” follows flighty Sally Gorce as she moves to Paris and makes her way as an aspiring actress in a new city. The narration of this book feels elegant, and the Parisian settings could make one wistful for travel. Sally has a way of getting herself in (and out) of bad situations which makes her relatable and endearing.

@viatolila

This account, run by sisters Lauren and Annael Tolila, is a major mood. The pair are travel photographers and videographers based out of Tel Aviv and Nice. Their account has a focus on beautiful Mediterannean water scenes and they sell prints, which is how I came across their photography. The first photo I saw was so good, I went and found their Instagram. It’s refreshing to see dream travel destinations interspersed with my usual social media feed to keep the fire of future travel burning in my mind.

Where do I even begin with Rick Steves? For those of you who don’t know him, he’s like Anthony Bordain’s dorkier, Midwestern uncle. Rick Steves has an empire of travel advice, from best-selling tour guide books, international tours, a docuseries, and his hugely successful Youtube channel. You’ll find yourself thoroughly entertained by his outfits and demeanor as well as learning something new. He certainly knows his stuff when it comes to travel. The man also possesses a quirky sense of humor, including phrases about rolling blunts or STD’s in the short translation sections of his books.

I had the pleasure of attending a talk he gave at Shannon Hall in 2018 where he spoke of travel as a political act. His main take away was about the value of learning from different cultures, and how experiences abroad allow us to approach political issues at home from a more diverse, nuanced perspective.

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

Whenever we try to pick a movie in my house, my Dad always suggests this one. He likes it because it appeals to your inner adventurer and makes you feel like anything is possible. This movie is cinematically beautiful, featuring both serene still shots of landscape to striking shots of actions filmed in Iceland. Walter Mitty, played by Ben Stiller, works at LIFE Magazine and daydreams of adventures all over the world while he’s at the office. Ultimately, to make a work deadline, he goes on an adventure of his own. The movie ends with an uplifting message about seizing opportunity and you’ll come away realizing that despite feeling limited by everyday responsibilities, adventure is possible for everyone.

Women Who Travel Podcast

This podcast by Conde Nast Traveler Editors Lale Arikoglu and Meredith Carey discusses tips and tricks for female travelers. This podcast is a recent discovery of mine and is available on Spotify and Apple Music. Recently released episodes discuss topics such as “what we wish we would’ve known before moving abroad” and “getting ready for travel in a post-vaccine world.”1 This is a light listen that will build knowledge slowly, perfect for the period of pause we’re in now. ■

1 “Women Who Travel Podcast.” Conde Nast Traveler. Accessed March 23, 2020.

Bad Karma

HOW WESTERN IDEALS INFILTRATED THE YOGA MOVEMENT

By Rachel Hale, Culture Editorial Assistant Graphics by Jessica Tenenbaum

In a fast-paced work culture where everything seems to pile up at once, sometimes the only hour of my day void of a text notification or an email is when I roll out my yoga mat. Though more than 36 million1 Americans find relief in the practice’s spirituality and exercise, yoga’s core ideals have been infiltrated by western, capitalistic ideals.

The practice of yoga goes back thousands of years and has its origins in Hinduism, believed to be a mixture of philosophy, religion and meditation meant to cultivate higher self-awareness and harmony between body and mind. Based on the hymns and mantras within sacred sanskrit texts known as the Vedas, yoga was practiced and innovated by the Rishis, sages who classified the practice into four paths: karma, bhakti, raja and jnana yoga.2 Yoga’s western adaptation can be traced back to yogis like Swami Vishnudevananda, whose modern teaching philosophy broke these ancient principles down into five simple precepts: Āsana (exercise), Prānāyāma (breathing), Śavāsana (relaxation), Vegetarianism (diet) and Vedānta & Dhyāna (positive thinking and mediation).3 The movement can be traced back to northern India, yet if you do a quick online search for “yoga,” you’re more likely to find filtered photos of a thin, upper-class white person than a yogi of color. The multi-billion-dollar industry that is yoga today, complete with apparel lines, equipment brands and fancy destination yoga retreats is one that many original founders would scarcely recognize.

In the process of these ventures, many western creators fall into the cultural appropriation of yoga practices, adopting only the elements of the movement that work to serve their business motives. While fitness adaptations

1 “2016 Yoga in America Study Conduct ed by Yoga Journal and Yoga Alliance Reveals Growth and Benefits of the Prac tice,” Yoga Alliance (Yoga Alliance, 2016).

2“Five Points of Yoga, Four Paths of Yoga,” Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centres, India (Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centres & Ashrams. Trivandrum, India, February 10, 2020)

like CorePower Yoga seem like something different entirely, forms like horseback yoga, doga (yoga for dogs), and brewga, (which combines beer and yoga) are inherently against fundamental Hindu practices — in the case of brewga, founders wouldn’t be able to participate due to its use of alcohol.

Within the business sector, expensive brands like Alo Yoga and specifically Lululemon, whose founder Chip Wilson once said he named the brand that because it was funny to try to watch Japanese people try to pronounce its sound,4 have capitalized the West’s yoga obsession into monetary success. A 2018 lawsuit involving body positive yoga influencer Dana Falsetti, video training program platform Cody Inc. and Alo Yoga exemplified the movement’s ugly problem with capitalism. After Alo Yoga gained acquisition of Cody Inc., which Falsetti’s content was shown on, she expressed her distress in a short-lived Instagram story, writing that the brand “perpetuates body shame in imagery, sizing, product description and beyond,” accusing them of monopolizing on the yoga scene and being elitist, and claiming the owner has sexual assault allegations against him.5

As a result, Alo Yoga sued Falsetti for defamation, prompting outrage from many in the community, including popular Instagramer Kino MacGregor @kinoyoga who wrote in a post, “If yogis enter business, or even seek to make money off of yoga, the yoga should always come first.”6 MacGregor is right — brands like these preach that happiness comes in the form of polyester leggings, catering to a wealthy, white clientele opposite from those who originated the practice to be simple and accessible to all.

While there is no option to return yoga to the way it once

4 Ryan Glasspiegel, “Lululemon Chairman Who Likes to Say Offensive Things to Step down for Some Reason,” December 10, 2013.

5 “What About Dana? - Balanced & Bliss ful,” balanced and blissful, July 24, 2018.

6 Yelena Moroz Alpert, “WTF Just Happened with Alo, Cody App and the Yoga Community on Social Media,” Yoga Journal, May 9, 2018.

was, those in the industry can take the time to acknowledge its roots. In 2008, the Hindu American Foundation launched a Take Back Yoga campaign to tackle the gap between Hinduism and commercialized yoga. In an interview with NPR, Senior director Sheetal Shah said the campaign was formed after the group observed that yoga magazines rarely used the word “Hindu” in relation to the practice, instead using terms like “Vedic” and “tantric,” with one of these magazines telling the foundation that “the word ‘Hinduism’ has a lot of baggage.”7 Shah said that the group hopes to maintain that yoga should be accessible to all while acknowledging the practice’s Hindu roots, sharing that “what we’re trying to say is that the holistic practice of yoga goes beyond just a couple of asanas [postures] on a mat. It is a lifestyle, and it’s a philosophy.”8

There are a series of initiatives some yoga organizations are taking to make their practice more accessible, one of the most popular being a sliding scale initiative that allows individuals to choose how much to pay for a class based on their financial standings. Other yogis are using their platform to raise more awareness about the cultural and spiritual roots of their practice. One of them is popular yogi Rachel Brathen, known to her two million followers on Instagram as @yoga_ girl, who hosts a diversity and inclusion series with yoga culture advocate Susanna Barkataki.9

Yoga is about reflection and mindfulness, yet these westerninfluenced intentions add new layers that cloud the purpose of the movement. Next time you open the door to a hip new yoga studio for your evening Bikram class or roll out your mat at home for morning Vinyasa, remember the origins of your practice — it may add more meaning to your movement in the process. ■

7 Margot Adler, “To Some Hindus, Modern Yoga Has Lost Its Way,” NPR, April 11, 2012.

8 Ibid.

9 Rachel Brathen, “Yoga Girl® - Integrating Equity: A Diversity and Inclusion Series with Susanna Barkataki,” Yoga Girl, 2021.

Your Favorite Vacation Spot Might Be

HOW THE CLIMATE CRISIS IS AFFECTING BELOVED TOURISM DESTINATIONS

By Chloe Lipton, Contributing Writer • Illustrated by Channing Smith, Art Director

The climate crisis is causing irreversible damage to many places around the world and vacation spots are no different. Increased natural disasters, rising temperatures, carbon emissions and human activity are all to blame. What you thought was your oasis, a place you could find refuge and relaxation, might actually be gone within the century.

Travel destinations won’t be the biggest loss to the climate crisis. Habitats, ecosystems and sources of food and water are also at risk. This issue extends far beyond the beach cabana. If you are concerned about which hotel reservations to book and place tickets to buy before they’re gone, I urge you to consider the magnitude of this issue. Whether you are visiting somewhere for the culture, the views, the cuisine or the adventure, look beyond the travel guidebook and see how the climate crisis is threatening people’s homes and our planet. As floods become more frequent, temperatures rise and in some regions, droughts endanger the population, we need to go a step further than using a metal straw and a reusable water bottle. Next time you pack your bags, be sure to notice how your vacation spot might be disappearing and think about what we can do on a local, federal and global level to stop this.

Glacier National Park

In the past 50 years, some of the glaciers in this Montana park have lost 85% of their mass.5 Of these icy structures, the namesake of the park, only around 25 remain. People head to Montana in the summer to escape the heat and find refuge under the pine and cedar trees, but days over 90 degrees Fahrenheit are becoming much more common. Alongside these hot temperatures, the park has seen an increase in the frequency and severity of wildfires. While the park recently removed signs that stated the glaciers would be completely melted by 2020, the problem is not gone.

Dan Fagre, lead scientist on the Portland State University study, reports that the climate crisis is driving the shrinkage, but it is human action that has worsened the situation.6

5 Christina Maxouris and Andy Rose, “Glacier National Park is replacing signs that predicted its glaciers would be gone by 2020,” CNN, January 8, 2020.

6 Christina Maxouris and Andy Rose, “Glacier.”

Florida

Contrary to popular belief Florida is unlikely to entirely sink within the next few years, yet the coastal state will still face many effects of the climate crisis. The sea is rising about one inch every decade, and rising temperatures are expected to increase storm damages, harm coral reefs and increase the frequency of extremely hot days on this peninsula.7 In 2020, roughly 86.7 million people visited Florida, many of whom hit up the hundreds of beaches on the coastline. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is advising coastal cities and homes near the water to take action against predicted flooding by building larger seawalls and elevating infrastructure to prevent damage. While your favorite beaches will not completely sink into the ocean, they will erode and the changes in the atmosphere will have additional effects on agriculture. The EPA estimates that freezing temperatures will become very rare in Florida, benefiting winter crops like citrus fruits, but potentially harming the summer growing season. Pack your bags fast and get in those beach days while you can, because the sunshine state, known for its beaches and oranges, might have to lean more heavily on the latter.

7 “What Climate Change Means for Florida,” United States Envi ronmental Protection Agency, August 2016.

Venice

Venice, Italy is home to 26,000 residents and hosts roughly 30 million tourists annually. This one-of-a-kind city known for its gondola rides, rich history and beautiful bridges that arch above the slowly sinking canals. In 2019, Venice experienced its worst flooding in the past 50 years, with water even seeping into Saint Mark’s Basilica, a 1000-year-old church.3 Because Venice is built on the edge of a lagoon, flooding is common, but it’s been happening more frequently due to the rise in global warming. When Venice floods, the salty water permeates the buildings and monuments. Unfortunately, the historical build of the architecture means the city cannot just replace materials with ones more durable.4

Adam Markham, Deputy Director of the Climate and Energy Program at the Union of Concerned Scientists, reports that attempts to prevent flooding through the construction of floodgates have been delayed; the project was supposed to be completed in 2012, but was hampered by corruption. Action needs to be taken fast to save this floating city.

3 Tara Law, “It’s Not Just Flooding in Venice. Here’s How Climate Change Threatens World Heritage Sites Everywhere,” Time, November 22, 2019.

4 Tara Law, “Venice.”

Cape Town

While the effects of atmospheric change are difficult to combat, some places do have climate change strategies. This is a necessity for Cape Town, South Africa, a city on the continent most affected by the climate crisis due to the region’s vulnerability to droughts, extreme temperatures and floods. The biggest problem facing Cape Town is water scarcity, exacerbated by population growth and record drought. In 2018, the government announced “Day Zero” where the water taps would be shut off and people would have to locate communal water collection points to get access to one of the resources we often take for granted — water. There continues to be a limit: households that exceed their daily water consumption face fines. Every year, millions of tourists visit Cape Town for the beaches, mountains, botanical gardens and political history, but as these travelers soak in the sun and new experiences, they should note how the water shortage is impacting the city.

Great Barrier Reef

With its sparkling waters and electrically colored coral, this home to diverse plants and animals attracts about two million tourists annually and supports 60,000 jobs.1 Visitors from across the globe descend on this spot in Australia to snorkel, sail, scuba dive or fly above via a helicopter. Yet, due to the impending climate crisis, waters are warming up 40% faster than scientists estimated six years, ago causing the coral to bleach and die off.2

As oceans continue to absorb greenhouse gases from the air, the outlook is grim for the reef. Scientists report that warming of just two or three degrees Fahrenheit could cause irreversible damage to the coral. This would not only eliminate a unique vacation spot that tourists flock to, but could also harm the ecosystem. Reef fish that depend on coral to survive are an important source of food for many and, without them, a much greater problem than the death of a destination could develop — food scarcity.

1 Australian Government “Tourism on the Great Barrier Reef,” Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, Date.

2 Damien Cave, “Great Barrier Reef is Bleaching Again. It’s Getting More Widespread,” New York Times, April 6, 2020.

Creating Your Happy Place

A GUIDE TO EASILY MAKE YOUR BEDROOM A PERSONAL OASIS

By Mason Braasch, Lifestyle Staff Writer

Photographed by Anna Janke, Contributing Photographer

At the beginning of April 2020, my five roommates and I logged onto a Zoom call to discuss moving into our first college apartment. We had to decide something that we had been dreading since we signed the lease in October — who would have to spend the year in the room without a window. At the mercy of an online random-name-generator, I was chosen to reside in the dark room appropriately named “the cave.”

As the COVID-19 pandemic continued and my movein date approached, I was worried that the space would have detrimental effects on my productivity and mental health. After lots of grumbling and complaining, I decided to invest in my bedroom for the year, making it a space that felt safe yet allowed me to be productive.

In the age of virtual learning, our bedrooms are classrooms, home gyms, movie theaters and sanctuaries. Simple aspects of your bedroom can have great effects on your mental health by altering sleep, stress and productivity.1 Even simple changes, such as adding a plant to your workspace, can increase attentiveness by 70%, found a study by The Royal College of Agriculture.2 Therefore, an investment in your bedroom is an investment in your mental health as well; small changes make all the difference.

The starting point to creating your bedroom oasis is to find your inspiration. Having a central idea to base your colors, decorations, lighting and mood off of can be helpful in making the task of decorating your room less overwhelming. Your inspiration can be anything; a place, a color, a mood, whatever makes you feel happy and at peace.

My inspiration was Sedona, AZ. After visiting the city in 2019, I felt that the soft colors, beautiful landscapes and happy memories would make me feel grounded and happy in my space.

Once you have found your inspiration, planning is everything. Decorating your room should be a fun and fulfilling project, not a stressful task. A great way to make your project pleasant, yet organized is to make a mood board. A mood board showcases your color palette, decorations or layouts and will help you stay true to what inspires you.

After imagining and planning your ideal bedroom, it is finally time to start creating. Compiling the contents of your bedroom should not break the bank either. Focus on small aspects that are easily changed; the smallest changes make the biggest difference.

Lighting

Lighting can be one of the most influential aspects of a comfortable and productive space. If you’re lucky enough to have a window, make sure you are taking advantage of natural light. If you’re like me, and are at the mercy of a single fluorescent light, fear not. You

1 D. (2009, November). How bedroom design and colour can affect your mood and health. Retrieved March 27, 2021.

2 Kapuku, R. (2020, July 08). 3 surprising ways your Room aesthetic can affect your mental health.

are not limited by the light sources that come with your room.

Investing in a few fun lamps can make all the difference in terms of lighting up your room. Himilayan salt lamps make for great desk lamps, as they give off a soft and calming light. Opting for warm toned lights is crucial in creating a cozy atmosphere, and it can be as easy as changing out the light bulbs in the lamps that you already own. Fun colored or unique lamps are easily thrifted, and can add warm lighting that will create a cozy and welcoming setting.

Decorations

Decorations can be the hardest part of creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing room, simply because there are too many options to choose from. Art is one of the easiest ways to add personality to your bedroom. Sites like Etsy are great for finding inexpensive and unique pieces that can add to your theme.

I chose to include artwork that is reminiscent of the orange hills of Sedona, and everytime that I look at it hanging on my wall, I am reminded of my happy memories there.

You can decorate your room with pictures, your own crafts, or an abundance of throw pillows. Just be sure that whatever you choose brings you some sort of peace, comfort or happiness.

Workspaces Workspaces in your bedroom are more important now than they ever have been. Online classes have forced me to spend the majority of my day sitting at my desk. That being said, it’s important to focus on creating a workspace that you want to spend time at, so that you feel productive and ready to take on any task.

Placing small pictures of friends or family on your desk is a great way to make you feel grounded and inspired. Whenever I am feeling stressed or overwhelmed, I have found that taking a moment to look at my pictures and practice gratefulness is a great way to get myself back on track.

Extras

Including personal touches to your room will increase the feeling of calm that you feel there. These smaller touches can be an essential oil diffuser, plants or your favorite books.

You will almost never see my room without a candle lit, and that’s because I have chosen scents that make me feel calm. Your room is yours, and including personal touches like your favorite scents can make it feel like more of a personal sanctuary.

Whether you prefer minimalism, loud and colorful, or somewhere in between, your bedroom should be a place that reflects you and the things that make you feel at peace. In the middle of a pandemic, when our bedrooms are so much more than the place where we sleep, it is beneficial to invest in making your room a personal oasis.

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